Designers Jon Call and Alexa Hampton go beneath the surface to determine the best new furnishings that update the classic decorative technique

The Experts

The Experts

For centuries—from the furniture of ancient Egypt to the lacquerware of 18th-century Japan—craftsmen have relied upon inlaid bone to add surface dazzle. Designers have continued to find fresh ways to feature the material. In the early 20th century, Carlo Bugatti used bone inlay extensively in his eccentric Art Nouveau creations; in the 1970s, Karl Springer applied it to clean-lined tables and lamps.

Alexa Hampton, who frequently incorporates furniture with inlaid bone in her projects, says it adds a luxurious quality without appearing ostentatious. "You want things to be luminous, but not gaggingly so," she says. "Bone inlay hits the sweet spot."

Furniture and objects inlaid with bone are almost always "personality pieces," says Jon Call, who adds that even small items can have a major impact: "They pack a lot of punch." The reason, he adds, is that bone is naturally reflective. "A simple ivory color has so much depth and dimension. I work in neutrals, and bone inlay is perfect for that."

ABOUT THE EXPERTS

JON CALL

Since launching Mr Call Designs in 2010, Call has developed a reputation for crisp, masculine interiors. His current projects range from a Manhattan bachelor pad to upscale dormitories. mrcalldesigns.com

ALEXA HAMPTON

As head of Mark Hampton, the New York firm founded by her father, Hampton designs classic, inviting rooms. Decorating in Detail, her second book, will be published in November. markhampton.com

1/ MOROCCAN STOOL BY ANKASA

1/ MOROCCAN STOOL BY ANKASA

"This is a new twist on the classic little Moroccan table," says Hampton. "It refers to it, but updates it with a clean-lined form." Use them for seating, she suggests, or "put two together as a cocktail table." Call pictures the stool in a girl's bedroom or a bathroom—"or any unexpected space where you need additional seating and a little punch of character," he says. 18" w. x 18" d. x 24" h.; $1,625; ankasa.com